Carols used to be sung all during the year, but only the tradition of singing them at Christmas has survived. Early Christians replaced the pagan solstice galas with Christmas and substituted their Christian songs. Over the centuries the words and meanings of the songs have changed. Some traditional verses or melodies were never intended to be Christmas songs in the first place. There is so much more to the stories of most Christmas carols and songs than most of us know. Join us and discover some of the fascinating legends and realities that surround the traditional songs of the season.

Presented by John Cilio, is a historical storyteller, author and researcher who has brought historical stories back to life for over 15 years. A member of the Organization of American Historians and the Association for the Study of Connecticut History. He has numerous articles printed in national magazines and newspapers and has published eight historical books ranging from women working in WWII and their impact on today’s business world to vintage helicopters. John has hails from a career in corporate marketing and has spoken to large and small audiences in over 60 countries around the world. He lives in Sherman, Connecticut.

Doors open at 6:30pm. Additional parking in rear. Holiday-themed refreshments will be served. This program is free to members with a suggested donation of $5 for nonmembers.